Inflammatory cytokines and immune system modulation by aerobic versus resisted exercise training for elderly.

BACKGROUND

Aging is characterized with immunosenescence associated with a hyper-inflammatory state, characterized by elevated circulating levels of pro-inflammatory mediators. Physical exercise is a potential strategy for improving the immune system dysfunction and chronic inflammation that accompanies aging. However, there is a need to differentiate between aerobic and resistance exercise training regarding human immune system and systemic inflammation among the elderly Saudi population.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare the impact of 6 months of aerobic versus resisted exercise training on inflammatory cytokines and immune system response among elderly.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixty previously sedentary elderly subjects participated in this study, their age ranged from 61-66 years. All Subjects were randomly assigned to supervised aerobic exercise intervention group (group A, n=40) or resistance exercise group (group B, n=40). Number of CD3,CD4,CD8 T cells count and CD4/CD8 ratio were quantified, IL-6, TNF-α and IL10 were measured before and after 6 months, at the end of the study.

RESULTS

The mean values of CD3, CD4 and CD8 T cells count and IL-10 were significantly increased, whereas the mean values of CD4/CD8 ratio, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly decreased in group (A) and group (B). Also; there were significant differences between mean levels of the investigated parameters in group (A) and group (B) after treatment.

CONCLUSION

The current study provides evidence that aerobic exercise is more appropriate in modulating the immune system and inflammatory markers among the elderly population.